The Chicago Cubs are aiming to strengthen their roster this offseason, but they may not be as active in the market as other high-spending teams. The New York Yankees, New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Toronto Blue Jays are expected to make big moves, while the Cubs may take a more conservative approach.
As a result, it’s unlikely that the Cubs will pursue big names like Juan Soto, Pete Alonso, Willy Adames, Blake Snell, or Corbin Burnes. Instead, Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer forecasts that the Cubs will target a “third-tier” starting pitcher, signing one to a three-year, $30 million contract.
Rymer highlights Walker Buehler as a potential target, noting that while his regular season was a struggle, his postseason performance was exceptional.
Buehler pitched 10 scoreless innings in his final three playoff appearances for the Dodgers and threw the pivotal pitch that helped secure their championship. Rymer suggests it’s possible that Buehler could land a multi-year deal with a team in need of a high-upside starting pitcher.
While Buehler’s regular season was disappointing—posting a 5.38 ERA, a -1.3 WAR, and a 1-6 record with the Dodgers—his playoff performance could boost his value. With the Dodgers expected to pursue other top pitchers like Roki Sasaki, Jack Flaherty, and Corbin Burnes, they may not re-sign Buehler.
Chicago could be an ideal landing spot for him, offering the chance to earn a solid contract with a team that has potential to compete in 2025 if everything falls into place.
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